Finding that your car won’t start when you’re ready to leave can really ruin your day. And on top of that, there’s no one single reason you can definitely point to as the cause. But the certified technicians at Pearson Auto in Alaska have a few of the most common causes for you, so you know what to look for if your car won’t start.
5 Reasons Your Car Won’t Start
Faulty Alternator
A car’s alternator moves power created by the engine into the battery to recharge, as well as into the other electrical systems. If the alternator no longer works, the car battery has no way to recharge and help start the car next time. If you notice that your lights seem dimmer or your audio output is quieter than usual, you definitely want to have your alternator looked at.
Battery Problems
A dead battery is a very common reason for a car not to start. As mentioned before, this could be caused by a faulty alternator, but could also be due to leaving the lights on in the vehicle or even particularly cold weather. If these are what drained the battery, you may only need a jumpstart from another vehicle to get you back on the road (though we recommend waiting until the battery has charged to full before you actually start driving). However, old or dying batteries will struggle to hold charges, so if you find your battery is frequently dead, it is time to replace it.
Engine Issues
Engines are made of many moving parts, and any of them can wear down and cause problems. If the ignition switch, starter, or spark plugs wear down or break, there is no way to start the engine or your car. The ignition switch transfers power from the battery to the starter motor, and the starter triggers the internal combustion cycle. Spark plugs, if in good condition, light the literal spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture that runs the engines. If any of these are not in working order, your vehicle won’t start.
Fuel System Problems
Luckily, most problems with the fuel system that might prevent your car from starting are simple fixes. A completely empty fuel tank only requires filling with more gas, and a clogged fuel filter — meant to strain impurities from the fuel going into the engine — can be replaced with a new one. A faulty fuel pump is a little trickier to fix as it requires repair or replacement of the part. A fuel pump moves gas into the engine; if it is not working, the engine will run dry.
Jammed Steering Wheel
If you have ever put your key into the ignition and not been able to turn it, you have experienced a jammed steering wheel. This can happen when a car is parked with the wheel turned far to one side or the other and is due to an anti-theft measure. You can usually fix this yourself by gently turning the key as far as you can, then turning the wheel to each side. This should release the lock and allow you to start your vehicle.
Pearson Auto Will Get Your Car Started
Still not sure why your car won’t start? Or just want to make sure it won’t happen again? The auto techs at Pearson Auto are happy to track down the issue and ensure everything is in good condition. Book an appointment or stop by our Pearson Auto West or On the Rich locations.